In a statement from Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods, it was revealed that a 17-year-old’s claim of being shot and abducted was entirely fabricated. The teenager’s actions prompted an extensive search operation involving local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. However, investigations uncovered that the teen had purchased camping gear and a bicycle before sending misleading text messages to his family suggesting he had been shot and kidnapped. His truck was found abandoned near evidence of a single gunshot, which was later discovered to be self-inflicted.
The situation unfolded when the teen was reported missing, leading to a statewide Amber Alert. Sheriff Woods described the sequence of events as “completely made up,” emphasizing that no external assailant was involved. The teenager eventually turned up in Williston with a non-life-threatening self-inflicted leg injury.
Currently, it is unclear whether the teen will face charges for his actions. While Sheriff Woods mentioned that legal consequences are still being considered, the investigation is ongoing. Detectives have been unable to interview the teen directly due to his parents’ refusal to allow questioning.
This case initially sparked concern with alarming text messages that led to a massive response from law enforcement. Nevertheless, witness accounts and evidence contradicted the teen’s story, raising suspicions early on.
As of now, detectives continue to analyze the evidence as they determine whether charges will be filed against the teenager. Sheriff Woods acknowledged the extensive efforts made by law enforcement, stating that while there were evident red flags, a thorough investigation was necessary to unravel the true circumstances of the case.